Thank you for contacting me about primary assessments this academic year.
I am delighted that children are now back in school. It will be vital this year to understand the impact coronavirus (COVID-19) has had on children's education, and so I am pleased to hear that Ministers are preparing for primary assessments to take place in 2021. This will help to understand the impact of COVID-19 and target ongoing support to those that need it most. Ministers have been working closely with Ofqual, the exam boards, groups representing teachers, schools, colleges, students, and teaching unions to consider the approach to exams and other assessments next year.
I strongly believe that National Curriculum assessments, or SATs, are essential in ensuring that all pupils have the basics of reading, writing and mathematics to prepare them for secondary school. They allow parents and schools to understand pupils’ achievements in relation to the age related attainment expectations outlined in the National Curriculum. I recognise that this year has placed extra burdens on schools and children alike. However, not holding the regular primary assessments this year could risk disadvantaging this year's cohort of learners.
Ministers are planning on the basis that primary assessments will take place in 2020/21 to allow us to understand the remaining impact of COVID-19 and target ongoing support to those that need it most. Key Stage 2 SATs will take place in the week commencing 10 May.